The Best Types of Wood for Burning in Tennessee

When it comes to staying warm during a Tennessee winter or gathering around a fire pit on a cool night, the kind of firewood you burn makes all the difference. At TN Timber Firewood, we only sell high-quality hardwood ricks, because we know that not all wood is created equal. If you're wondering what types of firewood burn best in Tennessee’s climate, here’s a breakdown of the top options.

🌳 1. Oak — The All-Around Champion

Why it's great:
Oak is one of the most popular and reliable firewood choices in the state. It burns slowly, produces consistent heat, and has a pleasant, mild aroma.

Best for:
Indoor fireplaces, wood stoves, and overnight burns.

🌳 2. Hickory — Hotter and Longer

Why it's great:
Hickory burns hotter than oak and lasts even longer, making it perfect for extra cold nights. It also gives off a rich scent that’s ideal for both heating and cooking.

Best for:
Wood-burning stoves, outdoor cooking, and long winter burns.

🌳 3. Cherry — Clean and Aromatic

Why it's great:
Cherry wood burns clean and gives off a sweet, mild fragrance. It doesn’t burn as long as oak or hickory but is great for ambiance and indoor use.

Best for:
Fireplaces, indoor aesthetics, and smoking meat.

🌳 4. Maple — Consistent Heat, Minimal Smoke

Why it's great:
Maple is another excellent hardwood for Tennessee homes. It produces steady heat and minimal smoke, which makes it an ideal choice for homes with less ventilation or smaller fireplaces.

Best for:
Efficient indoor burning with low creosote buildup.

🌳 5. Locust — The Longest Burner

Why it's great:
Locust is one of the densest and slowest-burning woods available. It puts out tremendous heat and lasts longer than nearly any other type.

Best for:
High-efficiency wood stoves and long, overnight burns.

What to Avoid

  • Pine or Cedar: These softwoods burn fast and hot but produce creosote, which can build up in chimneys and cause fire hazards.

  • Green/Wet Wood: Fresh-cut wood has high moisture content and won’t burn efficiently. Always use seasoned wood.

The TN Timber Firewood Difference

At TN Timber Firewood, we make sure every rick we deliver is:

  • Seasoned hardwood

  • Cut to consistent lengths

  • Ready to burn
    Whether you're heating your home in Crossville or lighting a backyard fire pit in Cookeville, we’ve got the right wood for the job.

📞 Ready to Order?
Contact us today or browse our site to schedule your next delivery. We proudly serve all of east and middle tennessee with premium hardwood firewood, sold by the rick.

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The Best East Tennessee Firewood: What Makes Mountain Wood So Special?

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Firewood Terminology & Sizes: What You Need to Know Before You Buy